Islam is the true religion that focuses on the welfare of mankind. When talking about the teachings and beliefs of the religion Islam, we must separate the religion from the politics or other discriminating thoughts. We should not talk to advocate a particular sect instead we should talk about the fundamental principles. Islam being a complete code of life is above all such discriminatory tendencies to which we Muslims are unfortunately indulged in today.

The main purpose of this article is to share the basic teachings of Islam rather than representing a particular religious sect. It is aimed to make us realize our responsibilities and duties as a true Muslim who believes in ALLAH ALMIGHTY’S Oneness and a perfect Momin who submits his will to that of ALLAH ALMIGHTY without ever questioning. Let us talk about the foundation for Islamic belief and reflect accordingly.

Sources

Islam is an organized religion. Its teachings are not ambiguous or unclear in any way. The main source for Islamic beliefs is the Holy Quran and then comes the Hadith (Sunnah of the beloved Prophet Muhammad PBUH). Both of these fundamental sources basically complement each other. Actually, the Holy Prophet PBUH implemented the teachings of Quran in his own life first of all. So, Sunnah is the practical reflection of what has been ordered and taught in the Holy Quran.

Fundamental Beliefs

In Iman-e-Muffassal, there are seven fundamental beliefs mentioned that a Muslim must wholeheartedly believe on (interpretation given as follows):

“I believe in Allah, in His Angels, His Scriptures, His Prophets, the Day of Judgment, and in the fact that everything good or bad (in the world) is pre-destined by Allah the Exalted, and in the resurrection after death.”

Mentioned below is a brief explanation of these beliefs.

  1. A Muslim believes in Allah Almighty who is the only Knower of the unseen and the visible. There is no God but Allah who has all the powers, knowledge and authority. Allah neither has an ancestor nor has a descendent. He is the Supreme Creator, Sustainer and Cherisher of all that exists.
  2. Made from the light (Noor), Angels do exist and they are not visible to us. Many in number, only Allah Almighty knows their exact count. Neither they disobey any command of Almighty Allah nor do they commit any sin.
  3. Allah Almighty revealed four Holy Books on four of His prophets namely Torah (revealed to Hazrat Musa Alaih Salam), Psalms (Zabur- revealed to Hazrat Dawood Alaih Salam), New Testament (Injeel- revealed to Hazrat Isa Alaih Salam) and the Holy Quran (revealed to Last Prophet Muhammad PBUH) for the guidance of mankind.
  4. Allah Almighty guided the mankind through His prophets and messengers, and the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the last prophet and there will not come any prophet after him.
  5. Muslims do believe on the Last Day when everything will perish and come to an end. There will be total end to all forms of life.
  6. Allah Almighty is the only power who knows what is going to happen next either good or bad. He created us with His Divine Will and predestined our course of life. As a Muslim, we are duty bound to belief that whatever good or bad we encounter in life is prewritten by Him.
  7. There will be an eternal life after death. On the Day of Judgment, everyone will get his/her due share either of happiness and reward (Paradise) or harshness and punishment (Hell) depending upon the deeds he/she had done in this life.

Basic Teachings of the Religion Islam

Islam is not all about worshiping Allah Almighty. Yes, we have to offer the prayers five times a day, recite the Holy Quran along with some other obligations. One of the basic purposes of Islamic teachings is to convert an individual into a “Human Being”. Humanity is what Islam talks about.

Faith in Oneness of Allah

This faith has a huge impact on the life of a person. When we believe in Allah Almighty as the Supreme Power, we do not have to fear from anything as we seek refuge with the only true Protector. It allows us to get rid of any fear and confusion and to go through any challenge life brings for us.

Salah

Salah, five times a day, is mandatory. We get the wonderful opportunity to directly speak to our Rabb by performing Salah. Also, it is the best way to remain active, healthy and punctual. It allows us to relax for some time because it is like a light exercise. When people get tired, they start stretching themselves. Medical sciences has proved that Salah is the best way to stay active and to get rid of tiredness. That is why,it is said to be the key to mental and physical calm.

Struggle for the Good

Struggle is one of the most important teachings of Islam. Everyone knows that there is attraction in the evil as Satan tries its best to misguide people. Islam urges to keep you strong and brave. Islam asks from its followers to remain firm, devoted and prepared for sacrifice.

This life is like an exam. Quran and Sunnah are the guiding materials to pass this exam. Everyone knows that even to prepare an ordinary exam, we have to struggle a bit. Life is a huge exam and Allah Almighty will evaluate our performance on the Day of Judgment. Please, be prepared and try to do the good and avoid the evils in this world. This is the only way to pass this exam with flying colors and to earn the prize of eternal life in paradise.